WHETHER returning to the saddle, or tackling 200km of ‘blood, sweat and gears’, Bike Week Winchester aims to offer something for all.

It will feature a range of cycling events from short novice courses to endurance events for experienced riders.

It will also include Back-to-Biking sessions for adults from 7 to 9pm on Wednesday, June 20 and Thursday, June 21.

They will be held outside the River Park Leisure Centre in Gordon Road.

Two Women-on-Wheels sessions are also planned from 1 to 3pm on Thursday, June 21 and Friday, June 22.

These are geared towards women who can ride, but need extra confidence to cope with busy traffic.

Jacey Jackson of CycleSure, who is a qualified instructor and former Winchester City Council cycling champion, will lead the courses.

She said: “People know it makes sense for their own health and financially and environmentally to leave the car at home when making a short journey, just popping into town for example.

“But sometimes they need that little extra encouragement to get on their bike. Cycle training can make all the difference.”

Sessions cost £5 and can be booked by calling 01962 860129.

The first event in Bike Week will be the tradition curtain-raising Cycle Cavalcade, which features a 15-mile ride on Saturday, June 16.

It will be launched by Gordon Seabright, the new chief executive of the CTC cycling charity.

Other events include another leisure ride at 7pm on Wednesday, June 20, probably including a pub stop.

A similar event is also planned on Saturday, June 23, followed by a 50-mile ride the following Saturday.

The toughest events are scheduled on Sunday, June 24 with the Winton 100km and 200km endurance challenges.

Winchester CTC organiser Sue Coles said: “Our cycle rides for Bike Week Winchester 2012 showcase some of the many rides that CTC Winchester offers, ranging from easy half day rides to challenging events for the experienced cyclists.

“Cycling is fun and a great way to discover the local area and meet new friends.”

Visit winchesterbikeweek.org.uk or call 01962 864479 for more details.